Glossary

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Saliva: The main protective factor for the exposed tissues of the upper gastrointestinal tract—the mouth, pharynx and esophagus. Salivary proteins help to prevent tooth decay, repair wounds or ulcers in the soft mucosal tissues and kill bacteria, certain fungi and some viruses. They also allow the formation of a food bolus and permit its proper swallowing, and facilitate your ability to taste and to speak.